There are many ways I am introduced or recognized. Some people around town know me by my job as a pastor. Others know me as the parent to my children. Some associate me with my wife from her work in the community.

Still, others see me pumping gas or in the grocery store and think that I remind them of someone else. They tell me I have a twin somewhere, to which I often reply, “Yeah, he’s the good-looking one that got all the brains.”

Our identity has many dimensions. We relate to a variety of people, have various interests, talents and pursuits. People see us in different venues, and engaged in different activities. Sometimes others are surprised to learn some new facet of who we are, for it is a side of us they never see.

As an observer of others, I realize that I can over-simplify how I understand someone else. I can begin thinking I know them better than I really do. I am so much more than another’s “quick assessment” of me, how can I recognize that truth in another person?

God is omniscient. I am not. That means that I am not the one who can see and know all there is to know. As well as I know my dearest friend, there is more about them that I can get to know. Indeed, that is part of the mystery of companionship, that I am constantly learning about — and from — another person. They fascinate me over time.

I wonder at others I have walked past in the last seven days. Who are people with whom I have crossed paths, only to know very little about them? Do I think I know all there is to know? Or do I not care to know any more?

I want to ask you to join me in a challenge for our community. The next stranger with whom you intersect, pray for them after your paths cross. While you are with them, listen to them with your full attention. But after you separate, take a second to pray silently: “God give them your peace/grace/joy/love … (choose one).”

This effort will shape how we live in each moment. As you become more alert to what God is doing in the life of others, come tell me. I’m the red-headed guy with glasses.

Rev. Michael Kendall is lead pastor of Farmville United Methodist Church. His email address is mkendall@farmvilleumc.org.